My Communication and Interaction

Communication is core to all learning experiences and is therefore taught holistically across all areas of the curriculum. 

Developing our fundamentals of communication underpin every area of life including education, therefore intensive interaction is at the core of our practice. Within the informal pathway communication is not timetabled as discrete teaching, since this must happen in context and in real time and staff must be open communicative partners at all times.

There is a recognition that communication must and will concentrate primarily on improving (i) expressive choices and (ii) positive social interactions. That is, we must not be concerned with teaching obedience or following instructions.

There is no suggestion that one particular method of communication will take precedence since this will depend on the individual learner’s preferences and predilections, except to suggest that key word signing must be used consistently and well by all members of staff, using our 3 M’s essentials (Motivation, Means, Mate). Signing has the unique advantage (like the spoken word) of needing no additional resources and being able to be instantly applied.

In the semi-formal pathway, as well as holistic provision learners will have access to explicit communication sessions determined by need i.e. communication groups, attention autism lessons, colourful semantics etc.

• Learners develop a sense of agency

• Learners experience social interactions and connect with others

• Learners develop ways to express themselves with no limitations of communication

• Learners communicate to meet their needs including choice making, receiving information and social connection

• Learners develop their communication skills through their preferred and motivational means

• Learners develop the ‘fundamentals of communication’

• Learners take part in reciprocal, ‘conversational’ interactions

• As a result of a ‘total communication’ environment, every learner is able to access preferred and relevant communication methods at all times,ensuring their inclusion in society.

• Learners are prepared for a meaningful and fulfilled adulthood.